Hussein Ammouta’s plans for Al Ahly’s January transfer window could change depending on the performances of several players when the Egyptian club resumes action after the international break.
The Moroccan coach has already identified areas he wants Al Ahly to strengthen, with the centre-back position currently among his main priorities. However, the performances of existing players and several younger members of the squad could influence the final decisions over the winter transfer market.
Al Ahly are entering an important part of the season following the end of the international break, with Ammouta under pressure to improve a team whose performances before the break had raised concerns.
The coach discussed those problems with club officials before the international period, explaining his reasons for what he considered an underwhelming level of performance.
Ammouta attributed some of the difficulties to changes within the squad. A large number of new players have arrived, some loaned players have returned and others have left, meaning the team needs time to develop understanding and establish clear roles on the pitch.
Defensive reinforcements remain a major concern for the coach.
Ammouta has identified weaknesses in the squad, particularly in central defence, while injuries to Youssef Belamri and Amr El-Gazzar have further reduced his options. Both players suffered cruciate ligament injuries and are expected to miss the remainder of the season.
An Al Ahly source told WinWin that Ammouta has already submitted his requirements for January, while the club’s scouting department is preparing the profiles of several potential targets.
The nominated players will then be monitored by Ammouta before he makes his final assessment and decides which options are suitable for the squad.
However, the club’s approach to the winter window could be affected by what happens on the pitch in the coming weeks.
One of the key factors will be the performance of Moroccan defender Ashraf Dari and whether he can provide the required improvement in central defence.
“Ashraf Dari’s level and what he will offer may somewhat change Ammouta’s demands, and the same applies to the young Iyad Medhat, who is good at playing in the same position and will be promoted.”
The source explained that the assessment will not be restricted to the centre-back position, with other players also expected to influence Ammouta’s thinking.
“The evaluation is not limited to the center of defense, as Muhannad Al-Shami is also among the elements scheduled to be promoted, while the technical staff is awaiting the level of Tawfiq Muhammad, the new arrival, and his ability to establish himself and provide the expected addition in the left-back position, which has suffered due to the injury of Youssef Belamri and his absence until the end of the season, in addition to Karim Al-Dabis’s injury for the second time.”
The performances of Al Ahly’s younger players could also alter the club’s recruitment plans.
The source said Ahmed Khaled Kabaka and Mohamed Abdullah will be closely assessed, with their performances potentially affecting Ammouta’s decision over whether the club needs to bring in reinforcements in two other positions.
“The same applies to the situation of the young duo Ahmed Khaled Kabaka and Mohamed Abdullah, as their good performance in the coming period will play a role in the possibility of changing the technical director’s conviction regarding the inclusion of two deals in the defensive midfield and right wing positions.”
The coming period will therefore be important in determining whether Ammouta’s initial transfer requirements remain unchanged or whether performances within the squad lead Al Ahly to adjust its January plans.
